The planning committee for the Staten Island LGBT Parade & Festival is currently seeking nominations for grand marshal for the 2012 parade.

The Staten Island LGBT Community Center provides LGBT individuals and their families with direct access to local services and activities promoting their overall physical, mental and emotional well-being.

This June 2 will mark the parade's eighth year in the Staten Island community. The parade will begin at Central Avenue and Slosson Terrace and the festival will be held in Tompkinsville Park.

"Grand marshals are selected for the impact their actions or leadership have had on Staten Island's LGBT communities," says Ralph Vogel, the center's director. "Possible considerations include individual volunteerism or service, promoting visibility and equality for LGBT people, or advancing solutions to community problems like homelessness of LGBT teens."

Along with complete contact information for the nominee, the committee encourages the use of information, personal stories, or examples that support the nomination. They encourage the importance of a thorough yet concise case for the nominee. Nominations must be submitted no later than March 31, 2012.